Tailevu

Closure period for Vugalei bridge changed

The closure period for the Vugalei bridge along Kings Road in Tailevu has been revised. In a statement, the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) said the Vugalei bridge will be no longer closed till 4am tomorrow. The bridge will just be closed for at least 2‑3 hours from 9am and FRA officials will allow traffic to […]

Nacanieli Tuilevuka

July 10, 2016 9:20 am

The closure period for the Vugalei bridge along Kings Road in Tailevu has been revised.

The Vugalei Bridge.(FRA)

In a statement, the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) said the Vugalei bridge will be no longer closed till 4am tomorrow.

The bridge will just be closed for at least 2‑3 hours from 9am and FRA officials will allow traffic to pass through for 30 minutes every hour as repairs take place.

Motorists will only be accommodated and allowed through during these 30-minute intervals.

FRA is able to carry out the emergency repairs using an alternative methodology which will require bridge closure for just 2-3 hours possibly less.

The Fiji Roads Authority said they are carrying out repairs on the damaged concrete bridge deck to help prolong the life of the bridge.

Traffic on the Vugalei Bridge along the Kings Road in Tailevu is currently restricted to one lane from 10am yesterday.

In a statement, Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) chief executive officer Mr John Hutchinson said a full closure of the bridge will be from 6pm this afternoon until 4am Monday morning.

HUTCHINSON: “We apologise for any inconvenience caused whilst we repair the bridge which will provide improved access for the local community.”

During this time, Mr Hutchinson said they will be monitoring the situation.

HUTCHINSON: “We will only accommodate emergency services such as ambulance, fire trucks and police to pass through.”

Mr Hutchinson said the traffic is currently reduced to a single lane to allow the contractor to work on the bridge which needs emergency repair to the deck.

HUTCHINSON: “Throughout the repair works, one side of the bridge will remain open, allowing one lane of traffic to operate in one direction, while the other side of the bridge is under construction.”

He said the work is essential to help prolong the life of the bridge.

HUTCHINSON: “Please note that there are no alternative routes available, hence motorists are advised to take extra time whilst travelling in the area to avoid delays. And, pedestrian access will be provided.”

Mr Hutchinson said there is a speed of 30 km/hr across the single lane.

HUTCHINSON: “We are urging motorists to adhere to the speed limits and use caution while approaching and traveling through the work zone.”

He said that they want to complete the repair works as quickly and safely as possible.

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